A brief review of extensor tendon injuries specific to the pediatric patient

C Liam Dwyer1, Rey N Ramirez2, John D Lubahn2

  • 1Department of Orthopaedics, UPMC Hamot, Erie, PA USA.

Hand (New York, N.Y.)
|March 14, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric extensor tendon injuries need careful evaluation and treatment tailored to the child. Most injuries can be managed with splinting or primary repair, adjusting methods for young patients.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Pediatric Traumatology

Background:

  • Extensor tendon injuries present unique challenges in pediatric patients.
  • Understanding differences between pediatric and adult injuries is critical for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To delineate the distinct characteristics of extensor tendon injuries in children compared to adults.
  • To outline appropriate treatment strategies for pediatric extensor tendon injuries based on injury site.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive review of pediatric extensor tendon injury literature.
  • Emphasis on detailed history and physical examination for diagnosis.
  • Analysis of treatment modalities including splinting and primary repair.

Main Results:

  • Pediatric extensor tendon injuries exhibit specific patterns and require tailored approaches.
  • Treatment success is significantly influenced by the injury's anatomical location.
  • Non-operative (splinting) and operative (primary repair) methods are primary interventions.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of pediatric extensor tendon injuries necessitates a child-specific approach.
  • Treatment protocols must consider the patient's age and compliance.
  • Splinting and primary repair represent the majority of successful treatment strategies.